Herald columnist David Torrance has revealed he is leaving journalism after 18 years to take up a new post at the House of Commons Library.

The writer, who has sparked much political debate with his columns, will be working in a politically neutral research role as a Senior Library Clerk, dealing with inquiries from MPs and helping to produce research papers.

Tweeting his last column for The Herald, he wrote: "After 18 years as a journalist I'm having a career change; It has, of course, been a privilege, but also fun & fascinating."

He added that his new role meant that he will not be able to "Tweet as freely as before".

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Editor-in-Chief at Newsquest Scotland, Donald Martin, added: "David Torrance has been a popular columnist on The Herald.

"His analysis of the political scene, particularly on constitutional issues, is unrivalled. We wish him all the best for the future."

Torrance began his career at the Edinburgh Evening News before moving into broadcasting, presenting and producing political programmes.

He has regularly appeared on the BBC speaking on Scottish politics. He is also the author of a number of political biographies, including books on Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon.